Polk County Pulse April 21, 2021 by The Pulse

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

April 21, 2021

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NIDEC draws attention of AG

INSIDE:

Local industry, economy important to Rutledge By Jeri Pearson

Autism Awareness

Depot Dash

Page 13

One of Polk County’s largest employers, Nidec, garnered the attention of Attorney General Leslie Rutledge last week. As the AG begins her campaign for Governor of Arkansas, she is reaching out to industries that have a statewide impact. “Taking the time to visit with a variety of industries and hear from people across the state is important to me, not only as I campaign, but as Attorney General,” Rutledge said. “The more I know about what industries face, what

affects them, the better I can serve the people of Arkansas in my role.” Nidec was recommended to Rutledge as a vital part of Polk County’s economy for the role it plays in the local workforce, which employees approximately 325 individuals from Polk and surrounding counties, as well as the companies contribution to the states domestic products. Jim Stroope, Nidec Plant Manager, told Rutledge during her visit the pandemic has impacted employment, production and costs, however signs show

See NIDEC TOUR page 2

Photo by Trey Youngdahl Dan Riner picks up litter on Reine Street in Mena Saturday.

Citizen’s good deeds noticed by council

Page 16

By Jeri Pearson

OLT May Happenings

Page 25

Photo by Ashley Smith Attorney General Leslie Rutledge visits with Nidec Plant Manager, Jim Stroope, last week on a tour.

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Good deeds did not go unnoticed at the Mena City Council’s April meeting, where council members discussed their appreciation for one community member’s efforts to keep trash off the streets of Mena. Dan Riner, who can be noted walking

MAY 19TH GRADUATION ISSUE

See CLEAN UP page 4

2 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

NIDEC TOUR continued from 1 that the plant is returning to business as usual, with a few changes. Stroope commented that several industries that coincide with production at the plant have also suffered from reduced workforce, increased transportation costs and other factors that are slowly being overcome as business transitions to being in demand after the pandemic. “Demand has come back, and companies are not prepared to hire, train, get product orders in a timely manner, and that affects us,” Stroope said. “A lot of the changes are a result of supply chain difficulties.” Despite those difficulties, Stroope said the plant is preparing to ramp up hiring back to pre-pandemic levels, which typically hover around 400. “It’s good to see the world come back to life,” Stroope said. As the plant looks to ramp up hiring, Stroope acknowledged there is stiff competition among employers, noting that other major employers in the area

offer sign on bonuses and advertise heavily to recruit employees. “We do have a lot to offer at Nidec,” Stroope explained. “Many of our folks have taken advantage of tuition reimbursement and get their degree as they work their way up here. This is a company that offers advancement opportunities to those who are interested. Most of our people have been here 1215 years.” Rutledge visited with Stroope and leaders at Nidec, asking questions regarding how they came to work at Nidec and their background. “People’s stories are important,” Rutledge said. “I enjoy learning about people and what obstacles they face. It helps me do my job.” About Attorney General Leslie Rutledge Leslie Carol Rutledge is the 56th Attorney General of Arkansas. Elected on November 4, 2014, and sworn in on

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January 13, 2015, she is the first woman and first Republican in Arkansas history to be elected as Attorney General. She was resoundingly re-elected on November 6, 2018. Since taking office, she has significantly increased the number of arrests and convictions against online predators who exploit children and con artists who steal taxpayer money through Social Security Disability and Medicaid fraud. Further, she has held Rutledge Roundtable meetings and Mobile Office hours in every county of the State each year, and launched a Military and Veterans Initiative. She has led efforts to roll back government regulations that hurt job creators, fight the opioid epidemic, teach internet safety, combat domestic violence and make the office the top law firm for Arkansans. Rutledge serves as co-chairs of the National Association of Attorneys General Veterans

Affairs Committee, re-established and co-chairs the National Association of Attorneys General Committee on Agriculture and was the former Chairwoman of the National Association of Attorneys General Southern Region. As the former Chairwoman of the Republican Attorneys General Association, she remains active on the Executive Board. A native of Batesville, she is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law. Rutledge clerked for the Arkansas Court of Appeals, was Deputy Counsel for former Governor Mike Huckabee, served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Lonoke County and was an Attorney at the Department of Human Services before serving as Counsel at the Republican National Committee.

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April 21, 2021

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Our Team: Ashley Smith- General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Tori Stockton - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl- Digital Producer Curt Teasdale - Programmer/ On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Justin Richmond - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Ryan Lewis, Zane Steele The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.

City of Mena Fire Department Organizes Local Fire Safety Program for Students

Submitted by Mena Fire Department

A major key in keeping our community fire safe is awareness and education! With this thought in mind, the Mena Fire Department is working with National Fire safety Council, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, to provide fire prevention materials for our community through their Annual Fire Prevention Program for the children of Mena. These materials will be extremely effective in providing important information and valuable resources for our community. Some of the materials we have carefully selected include activity manuals, brochures, booklets and other valuable teaching aids. A broad range of critical topics are addressed in these materials including How to Report a Fire: 9-11, Home Fire Safety, Crawl Low Below the Smoke, Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Fire Extinguisher Awareness, Burn Prevention, and other community concerns. The Mena Fire Department will distribute these materials through presentations, activities and programs in our community. “This information is a great tool to help children, parents, teachers, and our community better understand and respond to the challenges and education needed to help

protect our citizens every day,” said Chief Steve Egger. The department is asking for the support of local businesses, by donating to help cover the cost of the materials they will be distributing. Your tax-deductible contribution will be used to provide fire prevention education materials for our local community. All donations are appreciated! In recognition of their generosity , the name or business name will be listed on the materials distributed in our community. Nikki Murdock, state safety coordinator for National Fire Safety Council, Inc., will fully coordinate the program including materials, donations, and delivery, along with Chief Steve Egger. I would like to point out that this is the only educational program that the mena fire department has endorsed this year. If you are contacted by a similar program, please call me immediately. Our loyal partners in the business community will be receiving letters soon. Please accept my sincere thanks and appreciation for your consideration of this worthwhile project. Through our partnership, we will be able to work toward providing a safer community for all of our citizens. If you or your business would like to become a partner or have any questions, or need additional information, please contact Chief Steve Egger at 479394-1234.

Statewide Drug Take Back Day Scheduled for April 24

Residents are encouraged to clean out their medicine cabinets and bring any unused or expired medications to one of the state’s more than 250 Prescription Drug Take Back Day drop-off locations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 24. Prescription Drug Take Back Day is observed in partnership with Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas National Guard, Arkansas Rotary Clubs, Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy, DEA, FBI, Office of the State Drug Director and over 100 additional law enforcement and government agencies, community organizations and public health providers. Event sites are held at various locations across the State but year-round locations are also available and can be found at ARTakeBack.org. The Attorney General’s office also hosts take back events at mobile offices around the State. Since the program began, more than 206 tons of medication have been collected in Arkansas, which is over 412,600 thousand pounds of individual pills.

News 3

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4 News

Pulse

April 21, 2021

CLEAN UP continued from 1 frequently, picks up litter that has been tossed carelessly onto roadways and property. Council members agreed that his efforts set an example for all residents. “He deserves to be recognized for his contribution,” Council member Andy Brown said. “If we had more like him, and less that littered, the city’s street scape would be better for it,” Council member Mary Alice Head said. “We need more like him, and I’m so thankful he has taken it upon himself to clean as he walks.” Council member Larry Stuart agreed and suggested Riner be recognized publicly. In an effort to show appreciation for Riner’s contribution, Pulse staff members began searching for an opportunity to photograph him in action. Riner’s son, Andy Riner, said his father is a private person and picks up trash

THE POLK COUNTY

because he despises litter and desires the community to be clean. When asked directly why he puts forth so much effort into removing litter from the street, Dan said, “Mena is a great place, but it is so much nicer when it is clean.”

campaigns. In 2020, 4,157 Arkansans volunteered to improve their communities by removing 153,314 pounds of litter during 212 cleanup events. KAB promotes its annual spring campaign, the Great American Cleanup (GAmC) and its annual fall campaign, the Great Arkansas Cleanup (GAC). These events are designed to encourage individuals around the state to take responsibility in local and statewide beautification efforts by organizing a cleanup or volunteering at a local event. Registration is now open for the Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup in Arkansas. Arkansans across the state are encouraged to get outside and participate in local cleanup efforts throughout the spring season. Organized by KAB, the Keep America Beautiful™ Great American Cleanup® in Arkansas begins on March 1, and various cleanup, beautification and recycling efforts will be held across the state until May 31. During the nation’s largest community improvement effort, Arkansans volunteer annually to clean up and beau-

“Mena is so much nicer when it is clean.” - Dan Riner

How You Can Help Community members who agree with Dan may be interested in participating in or organizing events to keep Mena and Arkansas Beautiful. The Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission (KAB) announced end-ofyear results for its two annual cleanup

tify their communities throughout a multitude of cleanup events. Communities and groups are invited to sign up to organize a local cleanup this year at https://bit.ly/KABSignUp. Cleanup organizers can use KAB’s free, print-ready promotional items to help recruit volunteers and learn how to organize a cleanup. Resources are available at http://bit.ly/KABClean. Volunteers can find local cleanups on the calendar of events at http://bit.ly/ KABevnt. “As warmer weather approaches and we look forward to heading outside to enjoy what Arkansas has to offer, we invite all Arkansans to take pride in their state by removing litter, recycling and getting involved in a local event near you,” said Mark Camp, executive director of KAB. During KAB’s two annual cleanup events last year, volunteers removed 410,197 pounds of bulky waste across 1,038 miles of roadside, 116 miles of waterway and shorelines, and 671 acres of parks and public areas. Arkansans also collected 3,496 tires, recycled 19,904 pounds of electronics and planted 384 trees, shrubs and flowers. “In 2020, we were able to remove more than 150,000 pounds of litter during 212 cleanup events,” said Camp. “We are thankful for each Arkansan who participated last year during these challenging times. It’s because of them that volunteers can find so many local cleanup and beautification events near them.”

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

State News 5

April 21, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives

This week, the House passed exemption on used motor veseveral bills which will increase hicles. Currently, used cars sold various tax credits and exempfor under $4,000 are exempt tions. from sales tax. This would inThose bills include the folcrease the threshold to $7,500. lowing: This week the House also HB1157 would double the advanced a proposed constituincome tax deduction for a tional amendment. HJR1005 teacher’s qualified classroom John Maddox would require statewide ballot expense from $250 to $500. initiatives to receive 60% of HB1513 creates an income the vote before becoming law. tax credit for up to $3,500 for retired If approved by the Senate, HJR1005 law enforcement officers who work would be placed on the ballot in Nocold cases for Arkansas State Police. vember of 2022. HB1196 would provide a sales and The General Assembly can put forth use tax exemption for water used by a up to three proposed constitutional poultry farm. HB1054 allows for sales tax exemp- amendments every session. Although tions of isolated sales at special events. the resolutions must ultimately be apHB1555 allows the Division of Heri- proved by both chambers, the House tage to issue up to $8 million in historic and Senate each put forward one rehabilitation income tax credits each amendment. A 2/3 vote of both chamyear. The current maximum amount of bers is required before introducing a third amendment. credits given is $4 million. Our final order of business before HB1596 amends the Sales Tax Exadjourning the session will be the Revemption for Certain Machinery and Equipment to include items sold for enue Stabilization Act (RSA). The RSA outlines the state budget for the followthe use of printing. HB1314 increases the maximum ing fiscal year. Once the RSA is filed, credits allowed under the Water Re- we will post it on our website. You can find agendas and links to source Conservation and Development live streams of all House meetings at Incentive Act. HB1160 would increase the sales tax www.arkansashouse.org.

Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox

john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060

Larry Teague

Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903, Nashville, 71852 870-845-5303

John Boozman

1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553

Bruce Westerman

101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887

From the

State Senate

The legislature has enacted the state Board take over numerous reforms to Arkanthe election process in that sas election laws. county. The Senate Committee The state Board of Elecon State Agencies and Govtion Commissioners could ernmental Affairs reviews be reimbursed for running all proposed legislation that the local election. The state address elections. So far this could withhold enough session, the committee has Larry Teague money from the county’s received 49 bills specifically turnback funds to pay for affecting polling places, absentee bal- election costs. lots, voter fraud and the handling of SB 644 authorizes similar steps to elections. address voter registration violations. A significant example is Senate Bill If the state Board finds a violation of 644, which has already been approved voter registration laws, it may issue a by the Senate and is being considered letter of reprimand or impose a fine of by the House. up to $1,000 against the local election It creates a toll-free hotline to the official and have the official decertistate Attorney General’s office to re- fied. ceive complaints of any violations of In related news, the Senate apelection law. To knowingly file a false proved HB 1715 to require county claim would be a Class A misdemean- clerks to provide the county board of or. election commissioners with a daily Within 45 days of an election, the count of absentee ballot applications. Attorney General shall report all comHB 1715 directs county clerks to plaints to the legislature’s Joint Perfor- compare signatures on applications mance Review Committee (JPR). SB for absentee ballots with signatures 644 would empower JPR to investi- on the applicant’s voter registration gate allegations of election fraud. document. If the signatures don’t JPR could schedule hearings to in- match, the clerk will not send an abvestigate allegations of election law. sentee ballot to the applicant. SB 644 empowers the committee to Both the Senate and House have swear in witnesses and subpoena passed HB 1803 to authorize the state them to require their appearance. It Board of Election Commissioners to could also subpoena records and doc- take corrective action when it uncovuments. ers violations of election laws. The JPR committee may then refer The Senate also passed SB 620 to rethe allegations to the state Board of strict electioneering at polling places Election Commissioners. The referral and SB 498, which changes the course shall include testimony from the leg- of action when someone files an elecislative hearings and a recommenda- tion law complaint to a county board tion of possible penalties. of election commissioners. Instead The recommended penalties in- of forwarding the complaint to the clude a letter of reprimand to a coun- county clerk and prosecuting attorty clerk or other local election official. ney, the county board shall send it to Also, the election official could be the state Board of Election Commisdecertified during the next election sioners. cycle or runoff. The Committee on State Agencies If legislators on JPR believe that vi- endorsed HB 1517 to set up online olations are so severe that they threat- voter registration. However, it failed en a county’s ability to conduct a free, on the first vote in the Senate. It refair and impartial election, then the ceived 18 votes but needed 24 for apcommittee could recommend that proval.

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

Oakley Mason Lindsey

Oakley Mason Lindsey of Mena, Arkansas died Monday, April 12, 2021 at the Mena Regional Health System. He was born on Monday, April 12, 2021 to Benjamin Mason and Nicole LeeAnn Hill Lindsey. He is preceded in death by paternal great grandparents, Charles and Doris Lindsey; paternal great grandfather Don ward; paternal grandfather, Mark Lindsey; maternal great-great grandparents, George and Georgie Shewmake; maternal great grandfather, Bobby Pace; maternal great grandmother Tina Williams; maternal great uncle, Roy “Bubba” Travis; and maternal uncle, Joshua Landrum. Oakley is survived by his parents, Ben and Nicole Lindsey of Mena; paternal grandparents, Bob and Sherri Miller of Mena; paternal great grandmother, Connie Ward of California; maternal grandparents, DJ and Jennifer Landrum of Mena, Daniel Hill of Tucson, Arizona; maternal great grandparents Carol Pace of Mena, Audry Cost of Mena, Frank Cochran of Mena, Dennis and Diana Hill of Mena, Lance and Beth Pollard of DeQueen; and a host of other relatives and friends. No services are planned at this time. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Lola Mae McClure

Lola Mae McClure, 84, of Paris, Arkansas passed away on Monday, April 12, 2021. She was born on May 5, 1936 in Logan County to her parents, Cecil B. Rice and Mary S. Rice Parsons. Lola was a homemaker and a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Paris. She always enjoyed crocheting, working in her garden and tending to her flowers. Lola loved working with her hands; she could build anything out of wood and loved working outside. Her children and grandchildren were always the light of her life. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by one son, Garry Berg; one sister, Sue Richardson; one brother, Cecil M. Rice; one stepdaughter, Diane Gentry and one stepson, Winford McClure. She is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, Floyd McClure of Paris; one daughter, Linda Warren and husband Honnus of Mena; one son, Earl Berg of Mena; one stepdaughter, Janet McClure of Ratcliff; two stepsons, Mike McClure and wife Sherri of Greenwood and Tim McClure of Fort Smith; one sister, Betty Caldwell and husband Joe of Dardanelle; one brother, Bill Rice of Mena; 16 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 p.m. with the funeral following at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, April 16, 2021 at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Paris officiated by Rev. J.H. Carter and Rev. Dillon Miller. Burial will follow in McKendree Cemetery near Subiaco under the direction of Roller Funeral Home in Paris. Online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com /paris Pallbearers will be Marcus Warren, Patric Warren, Jason Chaney, Caleb McClure, Evan McClure and Jason McClure. Honorary pallbearers will be Nicolas Chaney, Nathan Chaney, Matthew Chaney, Payton McClure, Cory Gentry, Preston Gentry, Gary Gentry, Lucas Rogers, Daniel Warren and David Warren.

Larry Wayne McCulley

Larry Wayne McCulley was born December 10, 1953 to William Jerld McCulley and Lena Ola Dunagan McCulley in Mena, Arkansas. He passed from this life to his eternal home at the age of 67, April 12, 2021, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents William Jerld McCulley and Lena Ola Dunagan McCulley. Larry married the love of his life Eulene Howard McCulley, December 12, 1980. They were married for 40 years. His wife Eulene and their son Larin Wayne McCulley were the apple of his eye and his greatest sense of pride and joy. He was so proud of Larin and the man he has become. He could not have asked for a more supportive and loving wife than Eulene. He and his wife Eulene shared a 30 acre farm southwest of Mena near the Potter area. He was a poultry farmer and gardener all of his married years. Larry enjoyed raising a large garden and tended a few head of cattle. He thoroughly enjoyed the farm life with his wife and sharing their produce and harvesting and canning various fruits and vegetables. Larry was an avid outdoorsman and taught his son Larin, his brothers Jerry and Danny to do the same. They share countless memories of fishing and hunting trips and family fun with Larry. He taught his son Larin and his younger brothers to drive, the facts of life, and how to care and support your family and to work hard for what you have. Larin said that Larry was the #1 dad. Best dad any boy could have had. He was the best example of being a faithful Christian, supportive, dependable, and faithful man to your wife, your children, your church, and to His God. Larry and his wife are members of the Southside Church of God in Mena, Arkansas. Thanks and appreciation to Pastors Kenneth and Debbie Posey and congregation for their many years of love and support. Larry is survived by wife Eulene How-

ard McCulley of the home, son Larin Wayne McCulley of Springfield, Missouri, his brother Jerry and wife Patricia of Livingston, Tx., his brother Rev. Danny and wife Jeannie of Springdale, Arkansas and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews and brother and sister-in-laws. He is irreplaceable and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at the Cherry Hill Cemetery with Brother Kenneth Posey and Brother Danny McCulley officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Pallbearers will be Ricky Wallace, Tommy Breashears, AJ McCulley, Brodie Crow, Jared McCulley, and Jerry McCulley. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Robin Elroy Weddle

Robin Elroy Weddle, age 99 and 11 months of Hatfield, Arkansas died of natural causes on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at his home. He was born on Sunday, May 15, 1921 to James Leo and Vera Elizabeth Miller Weddle in Arthur, Missouri. He grew up on a farm, met his loving wife, Dorris Pace, while a student at Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa and they married in 1940. Taking his outstanding work ethic along, he left the farm and pursued a successful career as a truck driver. His skill earned him first place in the tandem axle trailer class at the 1952 Truck Rodeo and a trip to New York City to compete in the national competition. As a proud member of Teamsters Local 554 in Omaha, Nebraska, he completed a forty-two year career driving over the road and retired as President of Rob’s Transfer in Carter Lake, Iowa. He was the recipient of a three million accident-free miles award from the National Safety Council. From his retirement from driving in 1983 until 2012, he continued

Weddle Obituary Continued on Page 7

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

to work various jobs including hosting at Valentino’s Pizza and operating the breakfast room at the local Country Inns and Suites where he earned over a dozen certificates of commendation for his tireless efforts to provide quality breakfast items in a clean and neat environment for the guests. Upon final retirement at age 91, he moved to Hatfield, Arkansas. He was a chartered member of the Lakeview Bible Church in Carter Lake, Iowa for forty-five years where he was a Sunday school teacher, lay speaker, and chairman of the board. Rob was passionate about serving the Lord throughout his entire life and had a huge servant’s heart, willingly serving many different volunteer organizations including Love Inc., the United Way, and the Nebraska State Patrol’s Metro Area Motorists Assist Program. Since moving to Arkansas in 2012, he has lovingly fostered over 55 puppies for the Humane Society of the Ouachitas. He liked to bowl and was proud of his high score of 269. He was a member of the Retired Teamsters and the Christian Motorcyclists Association. He loved his family, and loved watching them grow. Rob was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather,

ELECT SANDY

FRYAR

for

●Lifelong resident of Polk County & our district ●35 year educator in our district ●Passionate about students success ●Education oriented ●Fiscally responsible

great-great-grandfather, uncle and friend, and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Dorris Weddle of almost 55 years, his sister Jessie Bryson, and three grandsons, Brian Weddle, Daniel (Carol Jo) Weddle, and Duane Weddle. Rob is survived by three sons, David Weddle (Sharon) of Woodland Park, Colorado, Philip Weddle (Marcia) of Satellite Beach, Florida, and Timothy Weddle of Hatfield, his former wife, Cynthia Orozco of Omaha, Nebraska, one sister, Francais Weddle of Sebring, Florida; four grandchildren, Lisa Siebert (Chad) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Chris Weddle of Anderson, South Carolina, Eric Weddle (Heidi) of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Todd Weddle (Heather) of Portland, Oregon; six great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. Two Celebrations of Life are scheduled: 10am on April 24, 2021 at Grace Bible Church, Mena, Arkansas and 3pm on May 16, 2021 at Carter Lake United Methodist Church, Carter Lake, Iowa.

Cossatot River School District Zone 6 We have raised our children in this district, and hopefully have inspired your children, too. The school board election s will be May 18th, and early voting is available at the Polk County Courthouse.

Your vote helps determine the future of our school and our children.

Obituaries 7

8 Faith

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: Charles and His Corn Chips

By Richie Lawry

In the summer of 1932, the United States was in the grips of The Great Depression. The stock market had declined by nearly 90 percent since 1929. Twenty-four percent of the workforce was unemployed. Bread lines and soup kitchens were commonplace in America’s towns and cities. Farmers could not afford to harvest their crops and left them rotting in the fields while people were going hungry. Those that were lucky enough to have steady employment saw their wages cut or their hours reduced to part-time. Many people who had savings lost them as nearly half the country’s banks failed. It was July 10, 1932, and Charles Doolin was sitting in his family’s San Antonio café, Highland Park Confectionary. His parents started the business as a candy store and later added ice cream, soup, and sandwiches. Customers were few, and the café was struggling. Charles was looking for something to increase sales and keep the business from closing. As he read the classifieds in the San Antonio Express, he saw a short ad that caught his eye. “Corn chips business for sale. A new food product making good money.” When Doolin responded to the ad, he met Gustavo Olguin, a Mexican cook who had perfected a recipe for curly chips made by frying corn masa. Gustavo needed cash to move back to Mexico, and Doolin was impressed with the chips. Charles pawned his mother’s wedding ring and paid Olguin 100 dollars for the recipe and a list of 19 clients who had been buying the fried chips. Charles and his mother started making the new corn chips every night in their kitchen at home. They could make about ten pounds of chips every evening. The fresh corn chips became a popular side dish to go with the soups and sandwiches in their café. Charles named his new chips, Fritos, and started putting them in wax paper bags to sell in local stores. Within a year, he had invented a machine to increase production. The corn masa came out in ribbons and was cut with scissors as it dropped into the hot oil. The operation moved from his kitchen into his garage, and soon he was producing one hundred pounds of Fritos an hour. Before long, Charles was driving his Ford Model A all over Texas, selling his Fritos. There was no money

for a salesman or even for Charles to sleep in hotels. On his selling trips, he would sleep in his car. He said, “I slept in front of the best hotels in the state of Texas.” Charles innovated new ways to get his product in front of consumers. He invented the clip rack that hung many bags of chips in a small space and talked stores into putting these new racks near the cashier. He understood impulse buying. Charles’ new product and his innovations in production and sales made Fritos a success. By 1955, the company owned more than fifty production plants. In 1961, The Frito Co. merged with the H.W. Lay & Company, and the new Frito-Lay Company became the largest snack food company in the United States. Last year, sales for Frito-Lay were up 6.5%, to over 16 billion dollars. Fritos has gone from ten-pound batches made in the Doolin family kitchen to sales all over the world. Frito-Lay sells twenty-nine snack brands in more than 100 countries. When you go through a cashier’s line in most stores, you are very aware of Charles Doolin’s impulse buying strategy. Rows of candy, gum and other snacks meet your eye. I’m sure that most of us have bought something that we didn’t intend to because of the strategic impulse buying layout that most retailers use. Impulse buys are relatively universal, with a study from CreditCards.com finding that 84 percent of Americans say they have made impulse buys. The same survey found that over 20 percent of Americans have made an impulse purchase of over 1,000 dollars. Being impulsive can have a significant impact on your life.

Impulsive shopping and impulsive Christian living have a lot in common. Neither one is the best way to approach life. Making a good decision is essential whether you are shopping or making crucial moral life choices. The human tendency to be impulsive is the source of many bad decisions. When we decide quickly with very little thought or planning, we often make a poor choice. Ideas and actions are continually presenting themselves to our minds. The best approach is to use time, thought, research, advice, and Christian ethics and morals to filter the good ideas from the bad ones. Nearly all of us have sometimes bypassed the usual filters and acted on impulse. The idea seemed so great, the urge so strong, that we immediately jumped at the thought. At times our impulsiveness works out all right, but often we pay a heavy price. God wants us to be thoughtful and intentional in our relationship with Him. “Do not be hasty with your mouth or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth; therefore let your words be few.” Ecclesiastes 5:2 (AMP) God also wants us to temper our impulsiveness in our dealings with other people. “He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:19 (NKJV) Gentle Reader, the reason that impulsive decisions often work out so poorly is that our sinful self is louder than God’s Spirit. When you are confronted with options and must decide, the first voice you will hear will be that of your selfishness. The Bible tells us that “our sinful selves want what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit wants what is against our sinful selves. The two are against each other, so you cannot do just what you please.” Galatians 5:17 (NCV) And Peter writes, “Dear friends, since you are immigrants and strangers in the world, I urge that you avoid worldly desires that wage war against your lives.” 1 Peter 2:11 (NCV) He does not say you will never experience worldly desires. He does not say those bad ideas will never enter your mind. He says we must avoid these desires and not give in to our impulses. Taking the time to think through our decisions allows reason and spiritual insight to take over. Don’t be an impulse buyer.

Joke of the Week: My friend went bald years ago, but he still carries a comb with him. He just can’t part with it.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South

History 9 April 21, 2021 Pulse Reflections from History and Faith: Science and Christianity THE POLK COUNTY

By Jeff Olson For years now, there has been an ongoing debate between the realms of science and Christianity. Much of this has centered around the two subjects of evolution and creation. Unfortunately, and in far too many cases, the discussions and debates have presented a false choice. In other words, it is an either/or situation in which science and Christianity cannot co-exist. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Not only are they compatible but they are integrally related and share a common heritage. Christianity is a faith of enlightenment and intelligence. The fact that God created a universe with an orderly structure subject to scientific inquiry strongly validates His design of us with the capacity and inspiration to learn, share and apply knowledge for the common good. Many of the early scientists such as Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Tycho, Newton, and Pascal had a Christian worldview and their faith inspired and informed their scientific endeavors. To them it was clear that God had not only created the universe, but also had maintained its order and harmony. In Johannes Kepler's words: “The chief aim of all investigations of the external world should be to discover the rational order and harmony which has been imposed on it by God.” Science developed within a Christian civilization because of the biblical teaching of a rational God. Many civilizations developed great technical expertise - Egypt with its pyramids, Rome with its aqueducts - but only one produced the experimental method we call science. That civilization was Europe at the end of the Middle Ages which was a culture steeped in Christian faith. Inherent in Christianity is the presence

of natural laws that originate from God who set them in place as a function within His creation. This very idea of laws in nature is not found in any other culture. Science historian A.R. Hall states that the idea comes from the Hebraic and Christian belief in a deity who was both Creator and Lawgiver. Sociologist R.K. Merton says that modern science owes its existence to the Christian notion of moral obligation. A part of this obligation is encompassed in the biblical principle of stewardship which requires us to study the world and use it to the glory of God and for the benefit of mankind. The historic alliance between faith and reason, which endured for more than three centuries, came under siege during the past century by those who set out to discredit Christianity. Most of the attacks were often rooted more in philosophy and faith in science than in science itself. At the very heart of science are the factors of logic, rationality, objectivity, and reasoning particularly as applied to the collection and analysis of empirical data over time. This is essential in validating or dismissing proposed theories and comes with the understanding that even these are inherently provisional, meaning that science is always open to revision if warranted by new evidence. This is totally contrary to the idea often espoused today that science can be settled, static, and impervious to challenge. This is in itself anti-scientific. It is also important to bear in mind that scientific consensus are rarely unbiased or conclusive and have and will continue to change over time. Such slogans as “the science is settled” should arouse suspicion of source and motives. In some precincts, settled science has become a popular mantra to effectively convince others and at the same time

silence critics and delegitimize debate. While this may not necessarily be intended as a direct assault on the Bible or Christianity, it nevertheless is an assault on free speech and a threat to the preservation of the public square as a forum for open and civil discourse and intellectual freedom. And, it is injurious to the integrity and reputation of science itself. In the words of Galileo Galilei: “Who would dare assert that we know all there is to be known?” Unfortunately, the polarization of faith and science has infiltrated many of our nation’s educational institutions and misled countless young and unsuspecting minds. They are often taught that science disproves Christianity through subjects such as evolution and the age of the Earth and some definitions of science even include ethical neutrality. Christians nor anyone else should never be intimidated by dogmatic pronouncements about science proving this or science disproving that because many of the accepted theories in science were shaped by biases against religion, especially Christianity. We must be able to discern between what is often claimed to be science but is in fact philosophical naturalism disguised as science. The issue therefore should not be about science versus Christianity. It

MENA REAL ESTATE

www.MenaRealEstate.com

must be first and foremost about the pursuant of an unbiased inquiry and examination of the scientific evidence and following that evidence wherever it may lead. Only a proper understanding and application of the mutual relationship and interdependence of science and Christianity can bring this about. As parents, teachers, and others responsible for educating our young, we continue to be faced with an uphill battle in a moral relativistic culture which rejects any notion or claim of universal truth that transcends human opinions, theories, ideologies, and yes - even questionable science. In recent years the scientific and theological communities have to some degree been rebuilding old relationships, which is promising because each community has much to offer the other. As scholars delve more deeply into the historical record, their discoveries reveal that the preponderance of evidence leads to the God who created and sustains the natural laws the scientific community appeal to in their theories. And, the clearer it becomes that the development of modern science was rooted in the Bible and propelled by the Christian faith. In the words of Francis Bacon: “A little science estranges man from God. A lot of science brings him back..”

10 Humor/Outdoors

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

My Pulse Hogspore News: OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT

Move It On Down The Line Garage Sale Today By Clet Litter from the Ozarks

counseling.

Morton Trubletoof said, “I got my annual exam and Doc Spicer give me a thumbs up.” That sounds more like a new medical test for older fellers. Morton continued, “Doc recommend that I should add more fiber. That’s what I did and things are looking better. My TV picture is sharper since I upgraded to fiber optic cable.”

The Move It On Down The Line garage sale is today. It’s a chance to forward your next-door neighbor something that you don’t use anymore. I’m not reaping anything nice from my neighbor. I know I’ll get the now broken chainsaw that I borrowed from him.

Old Man Grimley says, “You’re old when you have store-bought products in your house with the word DISCRETE on the label.” I seen a headline that read, “Are you living in pain?” I thought it was a medicine ad, turns out it was for marriage

Squalor in the Holler starts this Friday in Winslow’s Holler. Jake the garbage collector is going fishing, so there won’t be any trash collection. It’s gonna be foul cause he’s leaving for two weeks. After 14 days, the sweetest smell in the dell will be Jake’s returning bait bucket. Mean ol Harley Spears signed on for a correspondence course on how to win friends and influence people. The lessons have two parts, but it don’t get into how to win the friends and influence people til near the end. The first part includes soap, a wire brush, and a membership in AAP, (Alcohol Abatement Program), with the One-Step System, Stop Drinking! Widow Fenster wants to tie the knot again, probably a granny knot. She’s interviewing possible husbands. She wouldn’t say what goes on in them interviews, but all the senior gents seemed pleased after their interview was over and were waiting for a second round. Widow Fenster’s son is Mayor Ringer, from a first marriage. I asked the Mayor if he was gonna give away his mother at the wedding. He said, “She already has a way, now she just needs a husband.” Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.

AND SURVIVAL BUILDING A NETWORK By Steven E Stillwell

One of the things I’m doing with this platform is reaching out to other survivalists, and outdoorsmen who share our passions, so I can bring to you some of the best information available. Our Facebook page is seeing some steady growth, and I really appreciate all of our new members. Some of the videos you folks are sharing are very educational. Turkey season kicks-off on Monday, so I’m looking forward to seeing your pictures and hearing all of the stories. For those of you who are venturing off to camp, be safe, watch for snakes, and enjoy the nice weather. I also love a good fishing tale, especially about the ones that got away, so keep me posted? A couple of months ago, I interviewed Phillip Pless from New York State, because I’m working on a magazine article. I mention this on one of our Podcast shows where we delve into the topic of Archery; see EDDIE PRICE in our archives. Pless broke the non-typical whitetail record while bow hunting, and his 18 point Buck was one of the largest animals ever taken in New England, scoring over 214-2/8, Boone and Crocket. His story is an exciting one, because he accomplished this feat with his Hoyt Maxxis 31, compound bow at a distance of 50 yards. The story is scheduled to appear in Rack magazine sometime next year. This exclusive trophy hunting journal is an affiliate of Buckmasters, and they’ve pioneered their own unique scoring system. They have a lot of animals that are listed in their record books that you won’t find in the Pope and Young, or Boone and Crockett libraries. Our latest Podcast episode features the former Mena, Chief of Police, Ray Shelley and we discuss some historical facts about Polk County, Ft. Smith, and

the Indian territories that are guaranteed to have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Ray’s done a lot of research, and one of the interesting stories he shares is going to surprise you. In fact, it was so exciting that Hollywood produced a movie that some of our older readers should recognize, titled TRUE GIT, staring John Wayne, and Kim Darby. The producers changed some of the details, but Ray gives us the cold, hard facts about this western tale of outlaws, and ruthless murderers. Every year, when the weather turns warmer, I see a lot of ATV activity, especially from our out of State visitors. My advice to everyone reading this column is to exercise a little prudence when exploring unfamiliar terrain. All it takes is one accident to ruin your vacation. 17 years ago, I took a trip to Colorado and I immediately noticed a reduction in my 4-wheelers power. The bike seemed sluggish in the thinner air. We were camped above 10,000 feet, and I traveled as high as 12,500 on my Kawasaki. When I returned to Arkansas, I discussed this problem with an all terrain vehicle dealer, and he advised me that they can install a special valve that will compensate for higher altitudes. Of course, this part should be removed after descending and coming back home to lower elevations. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SURVIVAL? We invite you to listen to our podcast, The Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Show. You can also find us on Facebook, so feel free to join us. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Community 11

April 21, 2021

Special to the Pulse: Columnist Rex Nelson

History of Lum & Abner recounted on 90th anniversary Special to the Pulse/From Rex Nelson This month marks the 90th anniversary of the first Lum and Abner radio broadcast. It was April 26, 1931, when longtime friends Chet Lauck and Norris "Tuffy" Goff broadcast their initial show on radio station KTHS-AM in Hot Springs. No one could have dreamed on that day that the program would become a network radio success on NBC, Mutual, CBS and ABC until leaving the air in 1955. There also were a series of seven Lum and Abner movies produced in the 1940s and 1950s. Not bad for two buddies from Mena. Lauck was born in October 1902 at Alleene in Little River County. The family moved north to Mena in 1911. Both the Lauck and Goff families became prominent in that part of the state. "Lauck was expected to continue his father's business interests--banking and lumber--but was more interested in entertaining at local events," writes Kathryn Moore Stucker of the Lum and Abner Museum at Pine Ridge in Montgomery County. "After graduating from Mena High School in 1920, he attended the University of Arkansas, where he majored in business and art. In 1924, he was co-editor of White Mule, the university humor magazine. "On Sept. 1, 1926, Lauck married Harriet Wood of Hot Springs. They settled in Mena, where their first child was born. Two more were born after the family moved to Chicago in 1931." Goff was born in May 1906 at Cove in Polk County. His family also moved to Mena in 1911 so his father could expand a wholesale general merchandise business that supplied country stories throughout that part of west Arkansas. "Goff and Lauck began building reputations as class clowns and popu-

lar entertainers while still in school," Stucker writes. "After graduating from Mena High School in 1924, Goff attended the University of Arkansas and the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a degree in business. On April 8, 1929, he married Elizabeth Bullion of Mena. The couple had two children. "Called 'Tuffy' since high school, Goff traveled to small general stores throughout the area, ostensibly to learn the family business. Instead, he spent most of his time talking to old-timers around pot-bellied stoves. Goff was a gifted mimic, performing in the classroom or on the street corner. His mother later claimed that all the family members were funny, but 'Tuffy' was the only one who got paid for it." Lauck and Goff were chosen to represent Polk County in a statewide charity broadcast at Hot Springs. Their skit was so popular that they were given a radio show. Within a few months, they were in Chicago performing on network radio. The Goff and Lauck families lived in Chicago from 1931-39 before moving to California to begin making movies. The radio show was set in Pine Ridge. The community once was known as Waters but changed its name to Pine Ridge in 1936 due to the popularity of the program. Henry Waters, who operated a sawmill and cotton gin, established a post office in his store in 1886. A.A. McKinzie built a general store there in 1904. In 1909, Dick Huddleston built the Huddleston General Store. The McKinzie store became the Lum and Abner Museum in 1971 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in October 1984. The Huddleston store, which was placed on the register at the same time, includes the museum's gift shop and post office.

See LUM & ABNER page 12

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12 Community

April 21, 2021

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THE POLK COUNTY

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LUM & ABNER continued from page 11 Stucker describes the radio show this way: "Two old codgers (Lauck and Goff were actually in their late 20s) ran the Jot 'Em Down General Store in Pine Ridge. Lum [Edwards, played by Lauck] was a bachelor with an eye for women, and his ego usually got in the way of common sense. Abner [Peabody, played by Goff] was a hen-pecked married man, and his gullibility was enormous. They were civic-minded merchants who never seemed to have any money in the cash register. Their schemes for grandeur always brought them to the brink of tragedy. "Additional characters were created for later broadcasts. Lauck portrayed Cedric Wehunt and nosey Grandpappy Spears, while Goff became Dick Huddleston, schemer Squire Skimp, shy Mousey Gray, Mose Moots the barber, town-meany Snake Hogan and others. Each character was based on a composite of friends from Waters and Mena. ... Their humor was clean and honest, reflecting smalltown life and human nature. The stories had universal themes that haven't become dated. Lum and Abner continues to be a popular program with old-time radio fans." The original radio recordings were syndicated in the 1960s. Their stories also live on through the Lum and Abner comic strip, which is written and illustrated by National Cartoonists Society member Donnie Pitchford of Carthage, Texas. Pitchford is celebrating the 90th anniversary with a storyline known as "Doin' 90" that appears in print and online. Audio productions of each strip are available. The comic strip has been published weekly for the past decade. Lauck and Goff did almost 5,800 daily radio programs that aired live for 15 minutes. Sponsors included Quaker Oats, General Mills, Ford Motor Co., Alka Seltzer and Horlick's Malted Milk. "Lum and Abner began as a lark in Mena, traveled to Hot Springs and grew in Chicago and other cities," Stucker writes. "Hollywood fulfilled the dreams of two small-town boys. Early broadcasts had local sponsors, but soon nationwide sponsors reached into millions of homes. After nearly 25 years of radio, television made inroads into audiences, and the programs were again locally sponsored. By 1955, the two were ready to quit." Goff died in June 1978 in Palm Desert, Calif. Lauck died in February 1980 at Hot Springs. Rex Nelson's column appears regularly in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. He's also the author of the Southern Fried blog at rexnelsonsouthernfried.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

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Autism spectrum disorder now affects 1 in 68 children. Boys are nearly 5 times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ASD. Autism spectrum disorder is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. The term stems from the Greek word autos meaning “self ”, autism literally means “alone”. Autism spectrum disorder affects all nationalities, all creeds, all religions, all races and both sexes. It doesn’t differentiate or affect only one group or another. In the late 1990s, the diagnostic title changed to reflect a more politically correct social environment. Now the proper expression is “people with autism or autism spectrum disorder”. Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3. The earlier autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed and treated, the better. Outcomes for children's lives are significantly improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Early behavior-based interventions have positive effects on some children with autism spectrum disorder and less note-worthy effects on other children. Early services need to be based on individual children's needs Jake Plunkett

Autism Fast-Facts

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and learning styles. Services for adults with ASD must be carefully individualized. There is currently no medical detection or cure for autism spectrum disorder. Parents do not and cannot cause autism spectrum disorder. Although the multiple causes of ASD are not known, it is known that parental behavior before, during and after pregnancy does not cause ASD. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder have communication deficits. It is important to distinguish between spoken language and social communication deficits. Autism spectrum disorder is not degenerative. Individuals with ASD can continuously improve. They are most likely to improve with specialized, individualized services and opportunities for supported inclusion.

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Being nonverbal at age 4 does not mean children with autism spectrum disorder will never speak. Research shows that most will learn to use words and nearly half will learn to speak fluently. Children and adults with autism spectrum disorder often care deeply but lack the ability to spontaneously develop empathic and socially connected typical behavior. Individuals with ASD often want to socially interact but lack the ability to spontaneously develop effective social interaction skills. Autism spectrum disorder costs a family $60,000 a year on average. The cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention. According to a recent study funded by Autism Speaks, the lifetime costs of autism average $1.4 million to $2.4 million. If one identical twin has autism

Autism Awareness 13

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spectrum disorder, there is a 60-96% chance the other twin will have some form of ASD. Although fraternal twins have a lower chance of both having ASD, if one has an ASD the other has up to a 24% chance. Co-morbid medical conditions in autism spectrum disorder are common and may include: allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, feeding disorders, sleeping disorders, sensory integration dysfunction, cognitive impairments and other medical disorders. Up to a third of people with autism spectrum disorder also develop seizure disorders—the rate of seizures in people with ASD is 10 times higher than in the general population. About 10% of children with autism spectrum disorder also have another genetic, neurological, or metabolic disorder.

Observing Bryson Stockton

AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH Telissa Montgomery

205 N Morrow, Mena, AR 479-394-1181 tmontgomery@ shelterinsurance.com

1 in 54 is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - Spread Awareness - Promote Acceptance www.autism-society.org

The Stockpile Thrift Store Matt & Tori Stockton

206 Hwy 71 S Mena, Arkansas

394-2244

(479)216-9223

700 4th Street Mena, AR

April 21, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Mena Area Board of Realtors Annual Awards for Excellence for 2020 AWARDS Individual: Rhonda Tims, Silver Level Michelle Hicks Silver Level Don Brewer Silver Level Shannon Hunter Silver Level Rachel Lance Silver Level Deana Dixon Silver Level

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 21, 2021

Tabitha Booher Gold Level Tiffany Lane Gold Level Nan Gaddis Gold Level Deborah Pate Platinum Level Hershel Bell Diamond Level Team: Team Titsworth Double Diamond Level Team Smallwood Double Diamond Level The Wright Team Platinum Level Aleshire Team Gold Level Himel Team Silver Level

16 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

Photos by Trey Youngdahl The Mena-Polk County Chamber of Commerce held the Depot Dash 5k this weekend. Participants in the 5k had the following times: Jordan Foster - 16:52, Miguel Diaz - 17:47, Quinton Broadway - 17:48, Anthony Sanchez - 18:20, Asael Sanchez - 19:27, Kailey Pentz - 21:18, Levi Ellison - 21:44, Enrique Zapal - 23:46, Olivia Orr - 23:54, Haley Perez 24:34, Emili Bravo-James - 24:46, Shannan Gardner - 25:29, Matt Matlock - 26:06, Anthony Hamrick - 26:59, Belicia Parris - 27:25, Jennifer Youngblood - 27:50, Sara Mitchell - 27:54, Earl Rutter - 28:19, Christy Titsworth started at United Danny Warren - 33:19, Amanda Country in 2016 and fast became a top agent. In 2017 she and her husband John Warrington - 36:53, Michelle Cole were the top selling team in the Mena Area - 37:09, Tiffany Lane - 37:15, Board of Realtors. In 2018 she was the top Joseph Rickman - 43:50, Erin producing female agent in the MLS and since 2019 has been the top selling agent in Anderle - 44:1, David Samuel the MLS, outperforming everyone in the th 44:41. trade. She has come a long way and

List with Christy!

continues to serve buyers and sellers in Polk, Scott and Montgomery Counties in Arkansas.

Christy Titsworth Sales Associate United Country Arkansas Properties 479-394-7545 Ofﬁce 479-216-0050 Cell 479-394-3444 Fax ww www.unitedcountrymena.com christy@unitedcountrymena.com

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 21, 2021

Community 17

Mannon Presents “Life in the Colonies” to DAR Submitted by Cortez Copher

The James K. Polk NSDAR Chapter was called to order by Regent, Cortez Copher, on April 15, 2021 at the First Baptist Church in Mena. Attending were nine members, five guests, and one prospective new member. The chapter has 42 members and one associate. The guest speaker was Joe Mannon, a graduate from the University of the Ozarks with a degree in history and master's degree from the University of Arkansas. He served in public education for 30 years, teaching Mena High School history, serving as a high school principal, and finally as an assistant superintendent in two different school districts. At this time he is enjoying teaching the adult Sunday School class at the Methodist Church in Mena. Mr. Mannon presented factual information about "Life in the Colonies" that makes you wonder if some of the things we are doing or experiencing today aren't similar. The next meeting will be on May 20, at 6:00 p.m.in the First Baptist Church. If anyone wishes to learn more about the James K. Polk Chapter or how to become a member, contact Dotty Kinnun, Registrar and Honorary Regent. (thekinnuns@gmaiil.com).

479.394.4248

104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344

Photos by Kay Dye Top right, Regent Cortez Copher, James K. Polk Chapter, calling meeting to order. Bottom right, Joe Mannon Presenting “Life in the Colonies” to the James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR. Above, Brenda Cunningham, Recording Secretary, speaking to chapter about the importance of the James K. Polk Community Service to America and members keeping a record of their hours.

18 Around Town Applications are being accepted for kindergarten age students who will attend Vandervoort Elementary next year. Kindergarten students must be 5 on or before August 1, 2021. Pre-Kindergarten screenings for Kindergarten students will be May 4th and May 5th from 8am-12pm. It will take approximately 30 minutes for your child to be evaluated. Pre-Kindergarten day will be May 7th from 9:00-11:30am. Students who will attend kindergarten next year can get acquainted with the teachers and classrooms. Parents are responsible for transportation. If your child is not currently enrolled in the ABC Program or Van Cove Preschool, please send $3.75 for lunch or send a sack lunch with them.

April 21, 2021

Around Town

taking applications for the 2021-2022 school year. Our program offers a fun learning environment in which students develop their social, physical, cognitive and emotional skills. Children ages 3 to 5 years, that are not enrolled in Kindergarten, may attend. We offer full and part time slots for your convenience. Students are charged a fee of $16.00 a day that includes breakfast, lunch, and a snack. Enrollment forms may be picked up at the office or contact Sharon Sellers 870584-9826 for more information.

ARVAC, Inc. will issue commodities at Polk County Fair Grounds on Polk Road 43 Mena, AR on Wednesday April 28th, 2021 from Van-Cove Preschool is now 10:00am until 1:00 p.m. Due to Covid-19 Concerns this will be a drive through only got medicare??? distribution. Women – 40 and Over Have you had your mammogram this year? The UAMS Mobile MammoVan will provide on-site mammograms at the Polk County Health Department in Mena. This service is provided by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. May 19th 2021 at 9am at Polk County Health Department , 702 Hornbeck Avenue in Mena Contact: UAMS Mobile Mammography at 1-800-259-8794 * Mammograms are by appointment only. Please call the office to schedule. With or Without Insurance. Pre-registration is required.*Must be 40 and older

THE POLK COUNTY

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the Crossing Church. For information call 1 at the OLT, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786 show will be performed the first two weekends in July. There are limited parts availNarcotics Anonymous meet at able, but does include both leading and 7 p.m. Monday, at 7 p.m. Thursday, at 7 supporting roles. Call 234-3902 for more p.m. Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the information. old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-216-7249. Movie in the Park, presented by Homefront Warriors, will show The JeThe Mena Lioness Club is sus Film Friday, April 23 at 8 p.m. in Jansasking the community to sen Park. Admission is free and bringing make donations to the Back- blankets and chairs is encouraged. pack Program, which sends food home with children during the school year. The Knights of Columbus is It cost $126 to sponsor one child for the having a fundraiser Fish Fry year, or $14 a month. To help assist the Friday, April 23 at the Knights of Columprogram and help a food insecure child bus Hall, 204 8th Street in Mena. Plates through this program, drop off donations include fish, fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, at UnionBank, to the BackPack program beans and a drink. Adult plates at $10 or mail donations to Mena Lioness Lions, and childrens plates are $8. Plates can be PO Box 688, Mena AR 71953. carried out from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. To order, call 479-394-7427 GriefShare is starting a new 13 week series at First Presbyterian Church in Fish fry fundraiser at the CosMena. Meetings are each Thursday from satot Senior Center Saturday May 1 from 10 am until noon and are open to anyone 4-7 pm. Dine in or carry out. Also outside in the community grieving the loss of a dining will be available. loved one. For more information call 479234-3419. It’s easy to have your

event listed in Around The Ouachita Expressions Town, which will be read

on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews. com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on Alcoholics Anonymous meet at Auditions for Ouachita Little FRIDAY. We look forward to 3 p.m. Sundays, at 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Theatre’s musical production continuing to serve the comat 8p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn at of “BIG” will be held Saturday, May munity! Show at the Mena Art Gallery is open through April 24th. This multi-media show includes blown glass, fused glass, pine needle baskets, ceramics, wood, paintings, drawings, photography, fabric arts, and an antique doll with handmade dresses. Something for everyone, and the Gift Store is full.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 21, 2021

The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG

April 12, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 71N near Acorn of a financial issue between family members. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on 4th Street near Cove of residential burglary. Deputy responded. Report of items flying off a trailer and striking a vehicle on Hwy 71S near Potter. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Hatfield of a theft. Deputy responded. April 13, 2021 Report of an unattended death on Chancy Lane near Cove. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Cove of the theft of a shotgun and tools valued at $1,100.00. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Arrested was Candi Revels, 38, of Mena, on a Parole Hold. Arrested was Brandy L. Crawford, 47, of Cove, on a Warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance. April 14, 2021 Report from complainant on Lott Lane near Ink of the theft of change valued at $200.00. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Hatfield of an individual refusing to leave the property led to the arrest of Brandon W. Rose, 23, of Mena, on a Charge of Criminal Tres-

pass. Report of a break-in at storage units near Potter. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Report of the discovery of a suspicious item led to a juvenile male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Arrested was Mikel E. Thomas, 31, of Mena on a Warrant for Hot Checks/Personal Services and a Warrant for Failure to Comply. April 15, 2021 Report of an altercation led to a Juvenile Citation for Disorderly Conduct being issued to a juvenile male. Juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Keleb J. Rushin, 20, of Mena, on a Hold for Other Agency. April 16, 2021 Report of a one vehicle accident on Hwy 375E near Dallas Valley. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 32 near Cove of an individual refusing to leave the property led to the arrest of Nathaniel Shane James, 22, of Fort Smith, Arkansas on a Charge of Criminal Trespass. Report of issues involving child custody. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Magnolia Ave near Mena of identity fraud. April 17, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 21 near Cove of a fraudulent credit card account being opened. Deputy responded. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Robbin M.

Candelaria, 50, of Mena, on a Warrant for Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons. April 18, 2021 Traffic stop on Polk 136 near Cove led to the discovery of suspicious items. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Report from complainant on Hwy 278 near Wickes of a stolen motorcycle. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 18 Incarcerated Inmates, with 10 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

Police Reports 19 taken from Splash Car Wash. Tanner Milham, 22, was served with a warrant at the police department. A report of possession of a controlled substance was taken at the hospital. April 13, 2021 Sabrina Stafford, 45, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Dallas Avenue. Robert Wells, 33, was charged with Possession of a Schedule 6 Controlled Substance after a traffic stop on Highway 71. Shawn Fender, 50, was served with three warrants after a disturbance call on Fairgrounds Road. April 14, 2021 A report of domestic battery was taken at a residence on Evans Circle. A report of theft of property was taken on Racetrack Road. A report of disorderly conduct was taken at the Juvenile Probation Office. Joey Adair, 50, was charged with DWI and Careless Driving after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

April 11, 2021 Michael Thompson, 39, was charged with Failure to Signal, Possession of Meth with the Purpose to Deliver, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Britney Watts,23, was charged with Possession of Meth with the Purpose to Deliver and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Arrests followed a traffic stop on Highway 71. A report of curfew violation was taken on Dequeen Street.

April 15, 2021 Chad Aucoin, 36, was served with a warrant at the police department. A report of harassment was taken at a residence on Sherwood Avenue. Christina Shaver, 30, was charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) at Walmart. A theft report was taken from a person at Washburn’s. A report of assault was taken at a residence on South Eve Street.

April 12, 2021 A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of criminal mischief was

April 16, 2021 A report of a runaway juvenile was taken on Highway 71. April 17, 2021 No reports.

20 Polk County Arraignments

April 21, 2021

POLK COUNTY ARRAIGNMENTS David Chase Egger, white male, age 31, is accused of one count of failure to appear, a class “C” felony, on February 8th. Jimmy Don Davis, white male, age 45, is accused of one count of commercial burglary, a class “C” felony, and one count of theft of property, a class “A” misdemeanor, on March 29th. Kenneth R. Fry, white male, age 49, is accused of one count of delivery of methamphetamine or cocaine, a class “C” felony, on February 24th Kenneth R. Fry, white male, age 49, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, on March 29th. Candi M. Revels, white female, age 38, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule II substance, a class “D” felony, on November 8th (2019) Candi M. Revels, white female, age 38, is accused of one count of possession of methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver, a class “B” felony. One count of possession of a schedule VI controlled substance with the purpose to deliver marijuana, a class “D” felony, and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, on April 3rd. Shane R Hogan, white male, age 32, is accused of one count of delivery of methamphetamine or cocaine, a class “C” felony, and one count of delivery of a schedule II controlled substance that is not methamphetamine or cocaine, a class “C” felony, on November 22 (2019) Mamie Renee Stinson white female, age 42, is accused of one count of solicitating money from incompetent, a class “D” felony, on December 27th -

January 28th. Chad Aucoin, white male, age 36, is accused of one count of forgery in the second degree, a class “C” felony, and one count of theft of property, a class “A” misdemeanor, on February 26th. Israel Schwartz, white male, age 75, is accused of one count of theft of property, a class “D” felony, and one count of forgery in the second degree, a class “C” felony, on January 6th. Clay E. Breeden, white male, age 42, is accused of one count of possession of methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver, a class “A” felony, two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “B” felony, on March 5th. William Hinkle, white male, age 47, is accused of one count of possession of firearms by certain persons, a class “D” felony, and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, on June 12th (2019) Loyd D. Bolton, white male, age 50, is accused of domestic battery in the third degree, a class “D” felony, on February 19th. Nevada Woodruff, white female, age 31, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, on March 2nd. Nevada Woodruff, white female, age 31, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, on April 8th. Cara Diann Holliday, white female, age 34, is accused of possession of a schedule II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, on April 7th. Joshua S. Smith, white male, age 29, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule I or II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, and one count of possession of drug parapher-

nalia, a class “D” felony, on August 18th (2020) Tonya M. Morrison, white female, age 48, is accused of one count of possession of methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver, a class “B” felony, one count of possession of a schedule VI controlled substance with the purpose to deliver, marijuana, a class “D” felony, one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, and one count of endandering the welfare of a minor 2nd degree, a class “A” misdemeanor, on April 3rd. Floyd W. Head, white male, age 68, is accused of one count of delivery of methamphetamine or cocaine, a class “C” felony, on March 10th. Jakki Lynn Hellyer, white female, age 28, is accused of one count of commercial burglary, a class “C” felony, and one count of theft of property, a class “A” misdemeanor, on February 6-7. Justin Caroll Close, white male, age 33, is accused of three counts of theft by receiving, a class “D” felony, on February 8th, and one count of possession of a controlled substance, a class “A” misdemeanor, on February 11th. Cody Dees, white male, age 35, is accused of one count of possession of methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver, a class “C” felony, one count of possession of a schedule IV or V controlled substances, a class “A” misdemeanor, and one count of possession of a schedule VI controlled substance with the purpose to deliver, marijuana, a class “D” felony, on October 2nd (2019) Cody Dees, white male, age 35, is accused of one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, on April 15th (2019) Randall D. Burkett Jr. white male, age 28, is accused of one count of possession of a schedule II controlled substance, a class “D” felony, and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia, a class “D” felony, on March 21st. George Trivette III, white male, age 28, is accused of one count of forgery in the second degree, a class “C” felony, on February 26th,

THE POLK COUNTY

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Hot Springs teen killed, suspect in custody HOT SPRINGS - Hot Springs police say a teen is dead and a man is in custody after a shooting Wednesday night. Officers say they found the teen, identified as 16-year-old Cam’Ron Vallequese Coger of Hot Springs, suffering from a gunshot wound while responding to a shooting report in the 300 block of Cones Road around 9 p.m. Police say 19-year-old Tyrese Darnell Davis was named a suspect and arrested on a manslaughter charge a short time later. Hot Springs police say anyone with information on the shooting should call Detective Mark Fallis at 501-326789 ext. 6720.

Homicide investigation of Hot Springs woman’s death continue HOT SPRINGS — Special Agents of the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch are seeking tips from the public related to the homicide of Paige Autumn White. White was a 32-year-old with a missing right eye and an anchor tattoo on her right foot. White’s remains were found off of Blacksnake Road in Hot Springs National Park on March 27, 2021. The investigation is ongoing and there is no indication that this was other than an isolated incident. National Park Service investigators are working with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Hot Springs Police Department, Arkansas State Police, and Garland County Sheriff ’s Department to find out more about the days leading up to White’s death. Though no further details about this incident are available at this time. If you may have information about White or her death, please contact the special agents at 888-653-0009 or online here.

THE POLK COUNTY

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Puzzles 21

April 21, 2021

04.21.21

04-21-21

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 04-14-21

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello! My name is Sayda. I am an elegant sweet girl who is about a year and half. I am a big girl, who weighs in at about 70 pounds but I am super gentle. I am kid-friendly and enjoy other dogs. I am already house trained and know how to use a dog door. I do get excited about vehicles, especially trucks, and will chase them. As such, I would need a secure fenced yard and/or spacious kennel when not supervised. I can be a bit shy with new people but I warm up fast. I am leash trained and enjoy going on walks. Are you looking for a new best friend? I am too! So, come by HSO and ask for Sayda! All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for dogs includes a collar, bed, toy, clothing, and harness selection. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

22 Classifieds CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES - EVENTS Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T120220 Ladies, I will quilt your quilt tops. Will take your keep-sake t-shirts and make a quilt for you. Please call (479)394-6209 to text (479)243-3232 Mowing, weedeating, and hedge trimming- When you need an extra hand in Mena/Polk County call 479-234-0509. Please leave a message 070721 Jeremiah’s Lawn Care- Friendly service. Reasonable rates. (479)394-7599

- EMPLOYMENT HIRING- Must have proof of 1 year experience, CNA, PCA, or HHA. Must pass background check, drug free, drivers license, and have transportation. Individual trained, companionship, preparing meals, arrands, bathing, grooming, and housekeeping. Call All Ages Homecare (501)623-2000 or (501)3188221. T042121

WE’RE HIRING! Join the staff of Wendy’s or Baskin Robbins today!

901 Hwy 71 N. Mena, Arkansas

Please Apply In Person.

THE POLK COUNTY

April 21, 2021

Cherry Hill School Reunion Saturday May 1st 2021 - Cherry Hill Gospel Church (formally methodist church). Visitation 11 am, potluck lunch at 12 noon, tell classmates please come The Polk County Farmer’s Market will hold it’s annual organizational meeting on May 4th at 6:30pm at the Education building next to the Polk County Extension Office. If you have any questions call 479-234-6467.

- RELIGIOUS END TIME BIBLE QUESTIONS? HOW MANY OF THESE 14 VERSES ARE YOUR SALVATION ISSUES? Matthew 5:48 (Jesus said this) Matthew 19:17, John 2:7, Luke 6:40 (Jesus said this) John 17:23 (Jesus said this), 2 Corinthians 4:12, Colossians 4:12, Hebrew 6:1, James 1:4, James 3:2, Revelation 3:2 (Jesus said this), Revelation 3:5 (Jesus said this), Revelation 20:15, The best for last, Revelation 3:21 (Jesus said this), QUESTION? DO THESE 4 VERSES BELOW, HAVE MORE MEANING NOW, BECAUSE OF THESE 14 VERSES? FOR SOME, THE ANSWER SHOULD BE A RESOUNDING YES! Matthew 7:14, Matthew 22:14, Philippians 2:12, 2 Esdras 9:14 I answered, I repeat what I have said again and again: The lost outnumber the saved as a wave exceeds a drop of water. WILL YOU TRY AND BE THAT DROP? (2 Esdras is from the Apocrypha) Please feel free to reach out at PO Box 645, Mena, AR 71953. T042821 End Time Bible Questions? P.O Box 647, Mena, AR 71953 After reviewing Matthew 22:36 - 37 - 38 and Exodus 20:11 and John 14:15 and 1 John 27 and Romans 6:16 and Revelation 22:14, ask yourself this question. Are you therefore, liable to be effected by 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11-12

CLASSIFIEDS

New wind facility now producing renewable energy for SWEPCO customers The first of three new wind facilities serving Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO) customers in Louisiana and Arkansas has begun commercial operation. The 199-megawatt (MW) Sundance facility is part of the 1,485-MW North Central Energy Facilities (NCEF) project in Oklahoma. SWEPCO customers in Louisiana and Arkansas will receive 810 MW from the project. “This is an exciting next step toward our clean energy future,” said Malcolm Smoak, SWEPCO president and chief operating officer. “The Sundance, Maverick and Traverse facilities will bring significant long-term cost savings to our Louisiana and Arkansas customers while helping them meet their renewable energy and sustainability goals.” The 287-MW Maverick and 999-MW Traverse facilities are under construction with planned commercial oper-

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ations in late 2021 and early 2022, respectively. SWEPCO’s sister company, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, will receive 675 MW from the project. The NCEF project will save SWEPCO customers approximately $2 billion over the 30-year expected life of the facilities “We appreciate the support of the Louisiana Public Service Commission and Arkansas Public Service Commission, who approved the project last year and saw the tremendous value of more affordable, renewable energy for our customers,” Smoak said. “We look forward to pursuing more wind and solar power as part of our plans for a clean energy future.” The allocation of SWEPCO’s 810 MW is approximately 464 MW for Louisiana, 268 MW for Arkansas and 78 MW for wholesale customers. The facilities are being developed by Invenergy and purchased by SWEPCO and PSO at completion. SWEPCO and PSO are American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) companies. SWEPCO’s investment in the total project is approximately $1.01 billion. “These new wind farms in north-central Oklahoma tap into some of the best wind resources in the country,” Smoak said. “They are directly connected to the transmission grid that serves SWEPCO customers.” The Sundance facility, located northwest of Aline in Woods County, includes 72 GE Renewable Energy wind turbines. In addition to the renewable energy serving all Louisiana and Arkansas customers, customers will also have the option to purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) through the SWEPCO Renewable Energy Choice program. Proceeds from the REC sales flow back into fuel cost savings for the benefit of all Louisiana and Arkansas customers. SWEPCO’s diverse energy resource mix currently includes 469 MW of wind energy under power purchase agreements with facilities in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. SWEPCO serves 543,000 customers in three states, including 233,000 in northwest and central Louisiana, 187,600 in northeast Texas and the Texas Panhandle and 122,800 in western Arkansas.

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 21, 2021

From the

Governor

The Value of a Teacher This week, I signed legislation that will increase the median salary of schoolteachers by $2,000 over the next two years. The raise is one way to show teachers we value their work, and this legislation was one of my top priorities. Senator Missy Irvin and Representative Bruce Cozart sponsored the bills that raised salaries. As another priority, the 93rd General Assembly passed additional education-related laws including requiring a computer science credit to graduate from high school; increasing funding for school transportation; and requiring schools to teach Holocaust Education as well. As an example of how the teacher salary bill works, the bill allocates nearly $800,000 to the El Dorado School District, where the money will have an immediate benefit. On Monday night, the El Dorado School Board voted to increase pay this fall by $2,000 for each of the 361 certified teachers and increasing the pay by 5.4 percent for each of the 241 classified employees. Ashley Curtis, a teacher at El Dorado High School who also coaches ninthgrade basketball and track, is one of the teachers whose pay will increase. Ashley accompanied El Dorado Superintendent Jim Tucker to represent his district at the bill signing at the capitol on Monday. Ashley is a hard-working natural-born leader who is in the job for the right reasons, Superintendent Tucker said. But he can say that about every one of the teachers in the district, he added. Another of our outstanding teachers and one of her first-grade students, Kamryn Gardner, has recently received national attention after Kamryn wrote a letter to a clothing manufacturer. Kamryn, who is seven-years-old, was more than a little put out upon discovering that the pockets on the front of her Old Navy jeans were strictly ornamental. She couldn’t put her hands or anything else in the sewn-on pockets. In January, Ellie Jayne, Kamryn’s teacher at Evening Star Elementary in the Bentonville School District, taught her students

how to write a persuasive letter. With the encouragement of her mother, Kim, who also teaches first grade, Kamryn put pencil to hand-writing paper to compose a letter to the company. She wrote: “Dear Old Navy. … I want front pockets because I want to put my hands in them. … Would you consider making girls jeans with front pockets that are not fake?” A month later, Old Navy sent to Kamryn two pairs of shorts and two pairs of jeans with real front pockets and a letter of appreciation from the Old Navy Kids Team. Ellie Jayne and Ashley Curtis are the caliber of teachers we recruit and hope to retain with competitive salaries such as the raise the 92nd General Assembly passed in 2019 for new teachers and this year’s increase of the median salary. We know these teachers are special, as Superintendent Tucker said, because they don’t choose their profession for the money. Ellie treasures the opportunity to teach her students to ask questions responsibly and respectfully. Ellie is rightfully proud of Kamryn, who reports that the first thing she put in one of her new pockets was her hand and one of her drawings. Kamryn’s parents, Kim and Brandon, are not surprised that their outgoing daughter is not going to rest on her success. She thinks that next she’ll write to the president to tell him that “throwing trash on the ground, there should be a law that you can’t do that.”

479-394-7301

1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

UA Rich Mountain Announces In-Person Graduation Graduates of UA Rich Mountain have received notification of the college’s plan to hold two in-person graduation ceremonies this year. The 2020 ceremony was cancelled due to COVID restrictions. Announced last week by Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs Chad Fielding, the college plans to continue to hold the ceremony on the front lawn of the Mena campus as in years past on Thursday, May 6 at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Masks and social distancing will still be required. “Graduating from college is always an accomplishment to be celebrated but the circumstances that these graduates have persevered through are remarkable. To say we are excited to celebrate these students’ accomplishments would be quite the understatement,” said Chancellor Phillip Wilson. Graduating during the 5:00 pm ceremony will be Associate of Arts, Associate of General Studies, Certificate of General Studies, and Health Information, Billing & Coding candidates. For the 7:00 pm ceremony, candidates from Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Associate of Applied Science-GT, CNA, Phlebotomy, LPN, RN, Machine Tool, and Welding candidates as well as GED graduates. More details are available at: https://www.uarichmountain.edu/registrar/ graduation.

THE POLK COUNTY

April 21, 2021

Today’s Best Country - KENA 104.1

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Graduate Salutes Date:________________ Name of Graduate:___________________________________________ Parent/Guardian(s):__________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ School:____________________________________________________ Special Honors:______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Extracurricular Activities (Clubs, Athletics, Hobbies):_______________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Future Plans:_______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________

Drop off at 1168 Hwy 71 S, Mena, AR OR Email news@mypulsenews.com

THE POLK COUNTY

April 21, 2021 Pulse May Days at OLT: Auditions, Elections & More Lots of excitement is in store for Ouachita Little Theatre! After postponement in 2020 due to the COVID19 pandemic, the musical production of “BIG” is being rescheduled. The dates are set for July 2,3,4 and 9,10,11. The cast was mostly selected in March of 2020. However, not all the cast members are able to retain their roles one year later, so auditions are once again necessary. There are some major roles open, including the “boss” MacMillan, and lead character Susan. Also several strong supporting and ensemble parts will be available for various ages. Auditions will be held on Saturday, May 1 from 10:00 AM until noon at the OLT. Just show up or call “Kropp & Company” at 234-3902 and let one of the directors know of your interest. This will be OLT’s biggest endeavor since “Annie” in 2019, so the theater folks are thrilled to start returning to the big productions so many patrons

have missed. May is also the month of elections for new board members and officers for Ouachita Little Theatre. This year, voting will take place online for those OLT members with emails; others will be mailed a ballot to return to OLT by May 17. The annual board meeting for patrons and members will be held on May 20 at 5:30 PM. Anyone interested in OLT is welcome to this public meeting. Officers and newly elected board members will be announced in the meeting. Of special note, longtime president, Rudi Timmerman, will be retiring from the presidency after decades of service to the theater. He has been an irreplaceable asset to OLT over the years with his almost daily attention to the details of running the theater. Particularly considering the challenges that COVID19 has produced for all theaters, his work has been keenly appreciated. Those OLT supporters

attending the meeting will be given a chance to show Rudi their appreciation and celebrate his tenure as an amazing leader. “The Three Amigos” starring Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short will be the hilarious movie featured during “Wednesday Night at the Lyric” on May 12 at 6:30 PM. Admission is free, and concessions are amazingly cheap. Join us for a fun old-fashioned event, watching a movie in a theater with the smell of fresh popcorn coming from the lobby! Considering the low number of COVID19 cases in Polk County and the availability of the vaccines, the OLT board is recommending masks for patrons to attend events but no longer requiring them. Concession and ticket staff will still be masked, and social distancing will remain in place with certain seats being marked off as unavailable. This policy is open to change as the situation is being monitored by the

Community 25

Photo by Trey Youngdahl Greater Tuna was presented to the community at the Ouachita Little Theater this weekend. The non-profit community theater group has continued to offer performances the past year while adhearing to pandemic guidlines. board of trustees. Come “play” with us! Even though we never really left, we are coming back in a “BIG” way this May!

L O C A T E D I N M E N A , A R K A N S A S • ( 4 7 9 ) - 3 37 - 7115 • W W W . H O M E W O O D G H C . C O M

26 Bucks Sports

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 21, 2021

Bucks Cruise Past Redlands, 3-1 University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain Coming off a 2-1 loss on Friday, the Bucks looked to rebound on Sunday afternoon at Bearcat Stadium against Redlands CC. Both teams entered the match 1-5 on the season and in region play. In the first half, it did not take Redlands long to score. The Lady Cougars took the opening kickoff and possessed to lead to a goal at the 1:30 mark to take a 1-0 lead. After that, it was all Bucks for the remainder of the half. Three minutes after the Redlands' goal, the Bucks got a free kick and made it count. Remmie Ferla (Corby, England) played the ball to Jess Douglas (Gatehead, England) for a goal at the 4:50 mark to tie the match at 1-1. Still maintaining possession, the Bucks got another opportunity. Monica Boyes (Abilene, TX) found the feet of Maddie Tyler (Tulsa, OK). Maddie made it count with a ball up and over the keeper into the back of the net.

The Bucks took the lead 23:13 into the match. The Bucks and Lady Cougars went back and forth for the remainder of the half. Bucks lead 2-1. The 2nd half began much like the first half ended. Both teams went back and forth. Redlands had several opportunities that the Bucks defense and keeper Briana Salinas (Fort Worth, TX) come up big in. With the score still 2-1, the Bucks made several runs. Thirty minutes into the half, Rhiannon Holmes (Newcastle upon Tyne, England) got possession off a rebound and found the back corner of the net to increase the Bucks lead to 3-1 with 15 minutes remaining in the match. The Bucks and Lady Cougars continued to go back and forth for the remainder of the match. The Bucks would come away with their 2nd win of the season. The Bucks record is now 2-5 overall and in region play. In the match, Briana Salinas made 4 saves on the day. The Bucks got 2 corner opportunities in the match.

Photo courtesy of Jodi Nicole

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Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve

515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M

Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC 1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953 Hershel Bell Executive Broker

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THE POLK COUNTY

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April 21, 2021

Bucks Sports 27

Photo courtesy of University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain

Bucks Win Region Series against NOC-Enid

Enid, Oklahoma – After sweeping NOC-Enid on Thursday at Union Bank Field, including a walk-off win in game 2, the Bucks looked to pick up a Region 2 series win at David Allen Park on Sunday afternoon. The Bucks come into the doubleheader with a 21-15 overall record and 9-5 in Region 2. Game 1 The Bucks looked to continue their success in game 3 of the series against the Jets. With 2 outs in the top of the 1st, Daegan Covington (Taylor, AR) reached on an error. Next at-bat, Luke Rice (Scott, AR) doubled to centerfield to plate Covington to give the Bucks a 1-0 lead. In the bottom half, Randy Little Jr. got the start on the bump. After giving up a leadoff double, he was able to get a strikeout and a pop up before giving up a 2-out walk, but he would get a groundout to end the inning. In the top of the 2nd, Eli Garrison (North Little Rock, AR) reached on a leadoff walk before Wesley Featherston (Hope, AR) doubled to right field to put runners on 2nd and 3rd. After a strikeout, Preston Lee (Maumelle, AR) plated Garrison on a sac fly to left field.

Featherston advanced to 3rd before scoring on an error to make it 3-0 after 2 innings. After a scoreless bottom half of the 2nd, the Bucks would get runners on 2nd and 3rd before striking out 3 times to end the top of the 3rd. With 1 out, Little gave up back-to-back singles to start the bottom half before getting a strikeout. After a 2-out walk, he would give up a single to plate an Enid run. After 3 innings, the Bucks led 3-1. The Bucks went scoreless again in the 4th before Little surrendered 2 runs, and Enid tied the game at 3-3. In the 4th, the Bucks regained the lead. With 1 out, Luke Rice hit a solo homer to centerfield to give the Bucks a 4-3 lead, but it was short lived. Cooper Perry (Avinger, TX) entered the game to start the 5th inning on the mound. He would give up a solo homer to tie the game at 4-4 after 5 innings. The Bucks got the bases loaded in the 6th but were unable to plate any runners. Perry gave up a walk and a double before being chased from the game. Brayden Ross (Charleston, AR) entered

Bucks continued on Page 28

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28 Bucks Sports

THE POLK COUNTY

April 21, 2021

Bucks Shutout Eastern, 4-0

University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain Coming off a double overtime loss to Murray State, the Bucks looked to put another tally in the win column against Eastern Oklahoma State. The Bucks controlled the first half in the midfield. Eastern Oklahoma made a few counters in the match, but the Bucks were able to regain possession each time. The Bucks only got 2 shots off but made one of them count. A ball was played to the corner and entered to the middle of the box by Maurice Theart (Parklands, South Africa) to Trev Lewis (Kitchener, Ontario). Trev played the ball to the feet of Dawson Sawyer (Brechin, Scotland). At the 28-minute mark, Dawson put it into the back of the net to make the game 1-0. That would be the score at the half. In the 2nd half, Eastern got possession and maintained it for the first few minutes, but the Bucks countered. Nine minutes into the half, Cedrick Price (Witchita, Kansas) found Maurice Theart on a run. Maurice would score at the 54:15 mark in the match. After the goal, the Bucks got another opportunity before Eastern flipped the field. After Eastern was unsuccessful on a corner kick, the Bucks countered. Paolo Mignacco (Genoa, Italy) played the ball across the box, and the Eastern keeper missed play the ball to allow Trev Lewis to find the back of the net to make it 3-0 at the 68:55 mark. With the Bucks attacking and maintaining possession, a corner kick opportunity resulted in another Bucks goal. Dawson Sawyer played a great ball and found the head of Ross Wilson (Wishaw, Scotland). Ross put it past the Eastern keeper at the 77:10 mark. The goal made it 4-0 and that would be the final score. Combining for the clean sheet on the day, Edward Garcia (De Queen, AR) and Jose Lopez-Ocon (La Grange, TX) combined for 3 saves on the day. The Bucks play again on Wednesday, April 21st, at home verses Crowder College.

BASEBALL continued from 27 the game with runners on 2nd and 3rd. After giving up a single that scored a run, the Jets hit a 3-run homer to take an 8-4 lead after 6 innings. The Bucks went in order in the 7th to fall 8-4 in game 3 of the series. In the loss, Cooper Perry (1-1) pitched 1.1 innings giving up 3 runs on 3 hits and walking 1. In the start, Randy Little Jr. pitched 3.2 innings, giving up 3 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits and had 4 strikeouts and 4 walks. Brayden Ross pitched 1 inning, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits and walked 1. Game 2 The Bucks looked for a fast start in the series finale. With 1 out, Cole Clark (Clarksville, AR) and Dan Taylor (Rogers, AR) hit back-to-back singles before Luke Rice walked to load the bases. Wesley Featherston hit a sac fly to centerfield, scoring Clark. The Bucks led 1-0 midway through the 1st inning. Getting the start on the hill, James McCormick (Benton, AR) gave up a leadoff double before picking the runner off at 2nd. Then, he got a couple pop outs to end the inning. In the 2nd, the Bucks got a walk and single to start the inning, but both runners would be stranded. McCormick had a 1, 2, 3 bottom half to keep the Bucks lead at 1-0. The Bucks went scoreless again in the top of the 3rd before Enid plated a run on a Bucks error. After 3, the game was tied at 1-1. After a 1, 2, 3 inning for the Bucks, McCormick gave up a single before picking off the Jets runner at 1st base. Back-to-back strikeouts ended the 4th inning. In the 5th, the Bucks put up a big inning. A single, walk, and a 1 out hit-by-pitch, Wesley Featherston touched all bases with a grand slam to left field to give the Bucks a 5-1 lead. In the bottom half, McCormick gave up a leadoff solo homer before getting a double play. A Bucks error and a Jets double plated another run, but the Bucks held a 5-3 lead after 5 innings. Both teams went down in order in the 6th inning. In the 7th, the Bucks loaded the bases again. Isaac Price (Siloam

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Springs, AR) hit into a fielder's choice to score Luke Rice. In the bottom half, the Jets got the run back. McCormick was chased from the game after a leadoff double. Daegan Covington came in on relief. The Bucks held onto their lead, 6-4. Both teams once again went scoreless in the 8th heading into the final inning of the game. Dan Taylor hit a walk off bomb to left field to lead off the inning add an insurance run for the Bucks heading into the final 3 outs of the game. Covington issued a 1 out walk, but he got a couple of fly outs to end the game. Bucks win 7-4. In the win, James McCormick (3-4) pitched 6 innings, giving up 4 runs (3 earned) on 7 hits while striking out 7. Picking up the 3-inning save, Daegan Covington gave no runs on 2 hits. He would strikeout 1 and walk 4. By picking up the series win, the Bucks move to 22-16 on the season and 10-6 in region play.